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Category: Youth
Moorpark College named 2025 Pathway Champion for driving Equity in Transfer Success
MOORPARK — At Moorpark College, transfer isn’t just a hope—it’s a plan. This year, the college’s work to remove barriers, close equity gaps and accelerate student success has earned it statewide recognition as a 2025 Pathway Champion of Transfer. This honor presented by the Campaign for College Opportunity recognizes colleges with the top numbers of Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADTs) awarded relative to full-time student enrollment.
Through California’s Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program, which guarantees CSU admission for students who complete aligned coursework, more than 450,000 degrees have been awarded statewide. At Moorpark, a focused and equity-driven rollout of the ADT has helped more students, especially those from families and neighborhoods who face extra hurdles getting to college, reach their transfer goals.
Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN) — Join Our Monthly Giving Challenge – Every Dollar Counts!
Right now, our Central Coast faces a critical task:
we must strengthen our own community resilience and adaptation because our larger government, health, environmental, and economic systems are increasingly unpredictable.
At Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN), we know that when food is produced and purchased locally, our entire community benefits. Farmers, ranchers, and fisherfolk keep their livelihoods, we reduce transportation-caused pollution, and local dollars stay in our community.
But this shift cannot wait. The challenges of climate change, rising costs, poor health, and inequitable access to food are already here. Our community needs action now.
That’s why we’re asking you to join us as a monthly donor.
Your consistent support helps us:
Adelante Charter School of Santa Barbara celebrates five years of transformative leadership under executive director Javier Bolívar
SANTA BARBARA — Adelante Charter School of Santa Barbara proudly celebrates five years of leadership under Executive Director Javier Bolívar, whose vision, resilience, and unwavering dedication have guided the school through a period of remarkable growth and renewal.
Bolívar’s journey to education is both inspiring and deeply human. Born and raised in Venezuela, he grew up the youngest of four in a close-knit family shaped by love, creativity, and perseverance. His mother, a stay-at-home mom and talented seamstress, and his father, a public employee, instilled in him humility, respect, and the belief that kindness is a strength. The loss of two older brothers while they were in college profoundly influenced Bolívar’s empathy and his commitment to live with purpose.
Legacies of Hope Dinner lights a candle for People Helping People
LOS OLIVOS — The Legacies of Hope dinner, was an evening of storytelling and community, gathering many of People Helping People’s most dedicated supporters to the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos on October 17, 2025.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of this year’s Luminary Awards, for those who have given in extraordinary ways to support the mission of People Helping People (PHP).
This year’s recipients are the Becky Barieau and Billy Wathen Family, Feed the Valley with Chef Daisy and Greg Ryan, and the Brady Family.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Save Art Save Democracy
MCASB Launches Future Fund
in 50th-Anniversary Campaign
Art and free speech are essential to a healthy democracy—Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) calls on our communities across Santa Barbara and the Central Coast to help safeguard the region’s only dedicated, free contemporary art museum. Once again communities are in crisis—and this time, artists and art institutions are on the front line standing up against authoritarianism. Join us!
Join CEC, SBHS students, elected officials and local climate champions on Nov. 8 for our next Youth Climate Workshop on climate advocacy, more upcoming events
Students in grades six through 12 who want to take meaningful climate action are invited to a FREE, hands-on workshop at CEC’s Environmental Hub, co-hosted by CEC and Santa Barbara High School’s Environmental Advocacy Club. In this session, we will dive into environmental policy advocacy, break down the public comment process, and show you how to use your voice to stand up for climate justice.
Ventura County Office of Education — Test Scores Rise, New Welding Center, Hackathon, and more…
Ventura County students are making gains in both math and English language arts, according to the latest scores from the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP). The percentage of students countywide who met or exceeded state standards in the 2024-2025 school year is up by 1.3% in math and 1.9% in English. This is the fourth consecutive year of improvement since scores dipped during the pandemic. You can find CAASPP scores for individual schools and school districts at this link.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Novel membrane gel from UCSB offers new tool for breast cancer research’ and more news, events
Researchers created an algae-based gel for studying mammary epithelial cells, which form milk-producing ducts and glands in healthy breast tissue and can transform into cancer cells.
Bilingual report — Application deadlines near for Hancock’s BSN Pathway and EMT Program
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is helping local students and healthcare professionals take the next step in their careers with two upcoming program application deadlines — including the college’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pathway, developed in partnership with California State University, Channel Islands (CSUCI), and the spring 2026 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) academy.
Ventura Housing invites Ventura County artists to create public art for new affordable housing community
VENTURA — Ventura Housing is inviting Ventura County artists to help bring beauty and meaning to its affordable housing community, Valentine Road Apartments.
As part of its commitment to integrating art into community spaces, Ventura Housing seeks artworks that inspire, uplift, and reflect the voices of residents. This project reflects Ventura Housing’s belief that art is an essential part of what makes a home. By bringing creativity and color into shared spaces, the Valentine Road public art initiative aims to spark pride, connection, and healing among residents.
Santa Barbara City College launches three new certification pathways in Phys Ed.
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College’s (SBCC) Physical Education Department is proud to announce the launch of three innovative certification pathways designed to meet growing workforce needs in sports, fitness, and healthcare industries: Youth Coaching, Fitness Trainer, and Pre-Sports Medicine. The certifications launched this Fall semester and registration for Spring 2026 begins Friday, Dec. 12.
The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College wins prestigious Animal Exhibit Award of Excellence
MOORPARK — The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College has received the Animal Exhibit Award of Excellence from the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), a national honor recognizing Annual Awards Banquet, recognizing the zoo’s excellence in new and unique live animal display, exhibit design and construction.
Presented annually at the ZAA Awards Banquet, the Animal Exhibit Award of Excellence places Moorpark College’s Teaching Zoo alongside some of the most respected wildlife facilities in the country. The ZAA, a leading accrediting body in zoological care, awards the recognition to exhibits that demonstrate excellence in enriching animal lives, engaging the public and advancing conservation education.
Bilingual report — Adelante Charter School, a 2025 California Distinguished School, celebrates 25 years of Dual-Language Program
SANTA BARBARA — This fall, Adelante Charter School, a 2025 California Distinguished School and a Spanish dual-language immersion program, will celebrate its 25th anniversary by honoring individuals who have been instrumental to its success and growth. The honorees include the school’s inaugural board members, whose vision and dedication made history in Santa Barbara County, along with local philanthropist Jim Kearns.
Bilingual report — Office of Traffic Safety awards $193,516.00 grant to the City of Ventura for Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Program
“We are excited to receive this grant, which will allow us to significantly expand our bicycle and pedestrian safety program,” said Principal Civil Engineer Jeff Hereford. “By focusing on education, awareness, and promoting safe practices, we aim to reduce crashes and prevent injuries. Ultimately, we’re working toward building more walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods where everyone can travel safely and confidently.”
CLU announces FABulous Fall Lecture Series
THOUSAND OAKS — For details on the series and to register, go to: https://www.callutheran.edu/centers/lifelong-learning/fifty-better/lecture-series.html
Lectures are $10 each. Bundle the entire series (12 lectures) for just $85. Or “build-your-own bundle” – choose 5 lectures for $40.
Half of the lectures offered this fall can be attended in-person at our Thousand Oaks campus (parking is free and accessible). All lectures are recorded and can be attended virtually.
LEAP — Community Raises 21,419 diapers for Local Diaper Bank
“LEAP has always believed that when we bring people together, we can solve big challenges. The diaper drives are proof—students, businesses, churches, and organizations all stepped up. Each diaper collected represents relief for a caregiver and comfort for a child, and we are grateful to everyone who made that possible,” said Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP.
Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Your facility could support your community during a disaster — Learn How
You don’t need to wait for the next disaster to make a meaningful impact. Community Environmental Council’s (CEC) Central Coast Resilience Hubs Accelerator is here to support local leaders who recognize the growing threat of climate disasters and are ready to take action.
If you work with a neighborhood school, church, library, community center, nonprofit, or similar facility, you may be in the perfect position to host a Resilience Hub — a safe space that offers shelter, safety training, clean air, off-grid power, cooling, and/or food before, during, and after a disaster.
The Gallegly Center at California Lutheran University empowers students to become leaders in civic public discourse
THOUSAND OAKS — We are excited about the opportunity for California Lutheran University to provide nonpartisan thought-leadership through the Elton and Janice Gallegly Center for Public Service and Civil Engagement on the main campus. This center will play a pivotal role in students’ collegiate experience by helping to develop the critical academic skills and broad perspectives necessary for constructive dialogue and civil public discourse. This scholarly engagement will empower them to pursue careers of meaningful public service and informed civic engagement.
Social Justice Fund for Ventura County’s 2024 Social Justice Fellow Alia Azariah announced as 2025-2026 Obama Foundation Leader
CAMARILLO — The Social Justice Fund for Ventura County is pleased to announce that Alia Azariah, 2024 Social Justice Fellow, has been accepted to The Obama Foundation’s Leaders program, joining more than 200 global changemakers for the 2025-2026 class. Following a competitive selection process, Alia will be one of just 101 Leaders participating in the Leaders USA Program, where they will receive training in leadership development and civic engagement to help build their skills and scale their work across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Bilingual report — From College Tours to Cultural Immersions, REACH Fellows REACH New Heights
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — This summer marked another season of growth, adventure, and celebration for REACH. Fellows toured colleges across California, trekked into the Sierra Nevada on a record four backpacking trips, and immersed themselves in the cultures of Bolivia and Guatemala. Together, these experiences embody REACH’s mission: preparing first-generation students to thrive in higher education while cultivating the resilience, leadership, and vision necessary to succeed in life.
Volunteers honor veterans at Habitat Ventura’s Playhouse Build Blitz, Presented by Bank of America
Our 2025 Playhouse Build Blitz will bring together more than 150 local volunteers to decorate custom playhouses to gift to local military and veteran families. This event provides volunteers a unique opportunity to celebrate Veterans Day by thanking military families for their service and helps raise funds for Habitat Ventura’s life-changing programs through sponsorships for the playhouses built by volunteers.
No Kings Day rallies planned on Oct. 18 throughout the 805 region
No Kings Day rallies are planned throughout the Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties region on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in protest of the policies of the Trump Administration. The rallies are being organized by Indivisible and supported by a variety of organizations.
“In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings,” Indivisible stated in a variety of posts.
“Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.”
Please see links to local protests, news coverage in the region.
Bilingual report — Getting the flu vaccine is critically important this flu season
By Kaiser Permanente
If you’re thinking about skipping the flu shot this year, you may want to reconsider!
Scientists and public health officials are preparing for a potentially active flu season in the United States in the coming months, based on recent trends and updated vaccine formulations. Here’s what they say the public should expect:
Oxnard College marks 50 years of service to Ventura County with new programs, academic milestones and campus celebration
OXNARD —Oxnard College is celebrating its 50th anniversary this academic year, reflecting on five decades of empowering students, shaping careers and strengthening Ventura County. The milestone was marked on September 25 with the unveiling of a new campus mural by alumna Elisa Torres and her team of student artists.
Funded by the Oxnard College Foundation, the mural depicts the people, places and traditions that have defined Oxnard and the college’s role in the community over the last half-century. The college first opened its doors in 1975 after local families, community leaders and activists came together to advocate for equitable access to higher education in Oxnard.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Hotshots, history and the human choices behind megafires,’ more news, events
In his book “When It All Burns,” Jordan Thomas sets out to answer a straightforward question: What led to today’s megafires? What emerged was an immersive account of a changing world.
Cal State Channel Islands earns new Intentionally Thriving Institution Designation of the Seal of Excelencia for impact in preparing and connecting students to the workforce
CAMARILLO — Excelencia in Education, a national leader in catalyzing institutional transformation for student success in higher education, announced that California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) has earned the new Intentionally Thriving Institution (ITI) designation of the Seal of Excelencia. Cal State Channel Islands is one of the first institutions to earn the ITI designation, which extends impact beyond the educational pathway and recognizes positive impact in preparing students for, and connecting them to, the workforce.
Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan launches Total Care Advantage: A new plan for people with both Medi-Cal and Medicare
CAMARILLO — Starting (Oct. 1), Ventura County residents with both Medi-Cal and Medicare coverage will be able to choose to have their care coordinated under one integrated plan from Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP).
GCHP Total Care Advantage (HMO D-SNP) is a Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan for low-income seniors and people with disabilities who qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal – known as Medi-Medi members. Total Care Advantage is designed to support members by offering care coordination to help with accessing needed services, scheduling appointments, and managing chronic conditions.
CSUCI/Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) announces Fall classes
CAMARILLO — Experience the Joy of Learning with OLLI at CSUCI
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Cal State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) is dedicated to enriching the lives of lifelong learners by providing opportunities for intellectual stimulation and social connection designed for adults aged 50+. We are thrilled to announce our Fall II catalog, featuring a fascinating selection of nine 6-week courses. Dive into a diverse range of topics, from health and longevity to international relations, art history, literature, anthropology, and more!
Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Together we made Raising Justice possible!
Our growing base of community champions – YOU! – raised more funds than ever at our annual community celebration and fundraiser!
Raising Justice showed us what a vibrant community of movement friends can do when we come together to uplift housing justice, environmental justice, and fight for immigrant worker power.
No one can do this work alone. Each year Raising Justice plays a central role in uplifting the organizing our region deserves — and this year’s success belongs to all of us.
Whether you joined us in person or chipped from afar — whether you’re an event sponsor, donor, grassroots leaders, partner, staff, volunteer, or table host — YOU truly help make it all happen – T H A N K Y O U!
The beautiful array of community contributions we witnessed at Raising Justice are what keep our grassroots organizing strong at a time when we need it most.
With gratitude for the grassroots,
Adelante Charter School in Santa Barbara achieves unprecedented test score gains
SANTA BARBARA — Adelante Charter School, Santa Barbara’s dual-language immersion K–6 program, has achieved one of the most remarkable academic turnarounds in California this year — earning double-digit gains in both English and math proficiency and recognition as a 2025 California Distinguished School.
In the 2025 state assessments, Adelante students boosted English Language Arts proficiency by 13 points and Math proficiency by more than 16 points in a single year — far exceeding statewide averages, where annual growth typically ranges from two to four percentage points.
Bilingual report — 805UndocuFund Fall 2025 Newsletter
We hope this newsletter finds you well and safe. We are pleased to share with you our latest updates on the 805UndocuFund’s efforts in taking charge of the newly operated Rapid Response Network. Previously owned by CAUSE, we have trained over 1,000 volunteers throughout the tri-county since the beginning of 2025. To date, we have almost reached our fund goal & immediately having been dispersed $478,000 to 388 families! All our successes could not have been achieved without the support from the community.
Fall Into Fun By The Sea: October events at Ventura Harbor Village
VENTURA — Ventura Harbor Village kicks off October seaside sunshine and embraces the spirit of the season with a full lineup of events. From an EV Car Show, to hallowed-themed family activities with witches, and doggies, and zombies, Ventura Harbor Village sets the stage for plenty of options to participate this October for a sparkling and spooktacular good time! venturaharborvillage.com/events
Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential Storm Water Runoff Contamination
There is a potential for storm water runoff to carry disease causing bacteria to the beaches and into the ocean water. In addition, storm water runoff can transport physical hazards such as partially submerged tree limbs and logs into the ocean that could result in serious physical injury. Contact with this runoff water will result in an increased risk to human health and should be avoided for at least 72 hours after all rainfall activity has ended.
UCSB — The Current — ‘UCSB praised for excellence, access and value in national rankings’ and more news, events
Painting a rich picture of a campus known for its innovative spirit, dynamic culture and vibrant community, a host of recent rankings uphold UC Santa Barbara’s status as a leading university across a range of categories.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — DJ Javier San Milano Drive now open!
Hello Community!
We had a blast spending time with you all this past Sunday at the opening reception of San Milano Drive! We want to thank you all for bringing the good vibes!
Big shoutout to our vendors who kept us fed, hydrated, and kept the jams flowing. Also a HUGE thanks to the amazing volunteers that made this event possible.
Special thanks to our media partners Santa Barbara Magazine, KCLU, and LUM Art Magazine.
If you haven’t seen Santa Barbara Independent’s Fall Arts Preview, read more about the exhibition.
Ventura County Arts Council — Artist Influencer Opportunity: Partner with VibeWell Ventura County
UCSB — The Current — ‘Chip-scale cold atom and trapped ion experiments can unleash the power of quantum science in the field’ and more news, events
Researchers are working to bring highly sensitive quantum experiments outside of the laboratory.
UCSB — The Current — ‘UCSB physics professors John Martinis and Michel Devoret win 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics’
Selected for the honor alongside UC Berkeley physicist and former advisor John Clarke, they were lauded for work that, according to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, “revealed quantum physics in action.”
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College students design signs for Nature Preserve
A group of nine students in the college’s art, graphic design and multimedia programs teamed up with fine arts instructor Tellef Tellefson and staff from The Nature Conservancy’s Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve, located in Lompoc, to design interpretive signage for the Jalama Campground, located adjacent to the preserve.